Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems

Automated Storage and Retrieval Machines | High Speed AS/RS Systems

Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems ( AS/RS ) are an integration of
several material handling products and software designed for automatically
depositing and retrieving loads to and from defined storage locations.
Within the AS/RS family several subgroups exist:
Horizontal Carousels, Vertical Carousels, Vertical Lift Modules,
and Fixed Aisle (F/A) Storage and Retrieval Systems.

An Automated Storage and Retrieval System ( AS/RS ) is a combination of
material handling equipment and software controls that work in conjunction
to handle, store and retrieve materials on demand. Automated Storage and
Retrieval Machines vary from relatively simple, manually controlled
order-picking machines to extremely large, computer-controlled
storage/retrieval systems.

Horizontal Carousels

A horizontal carousel consists of a fixed number of adjacent storage
units that are mechanically linked to either an overhead or floor
mounted drive mechanism to form horizontal loop. The carousel loop
rotates to allow access to each storage unit without the need to walk
and pick. The containers or totes in the storage units may be inserted
and retrieved either manually or by an automatic inserter/extractor
mechanism.

Vertical Carousels

A vertical carousel provides for a mechanically connected closed loop
controlled rotation of the basic storage unit. The basic storage unit for a
vertical carousel in most cases is a shelf that can be subdivided into
multiple bin locations. However the unit could also be a rod to handle
fabric or carpet or other specialty device. Because storage is vertical,
such systems are popular when conserving floor space. Although automatic
insertion and extraction of individual items or loads is possible, it is
not as common as it is with horizontal carousel applications.
Vertical Carousel Page>>

Vertical Lift Modules

A Vertical Lift Module, consists of two vertical parallel shafts each of
which are divided into shelf storage locations. Each storage location
can hold a single storage unit, generally a tray or tote module. The
tray or tote modules are inserted, extracted and transported between
storage levels and picking locations via an elevator-like device with
an automatic extractor that travels up and down within the space between
the storage shafts.
Vertical Lift Modules>>

Fixed-Aisle Storage Retrieval Systems

Fixed Aisle Storage & Retrieval Systems consist of one or more aisles
framed on both sides by a high density storage rack structure. The storage
loads are generally automatically stored and retrieved under computer
control via a crane system. The crane system is most often a machine
that consists of a floor running, vertical frame or mast that guides a
hoisting carriage on which loads are handled. Insertion / extraction
devices on the crane system manipulate loads into and out of the storage
rack system.

American Warehouse Systems, through our extensive client list, has
demonstrated time and time again that Automated Storage and Retrieval
Systems are proven technologies capable of effectively and reliably
handling materials of all kinds. These systems make it possible to
completely integrate material handling storage into the unique
application and specific needs of the client.